You can thank that run of late-season soggy weather for a tough choice Saturday (June 11) on the lower Russian River.

Two delightful small-town parades — the Forestville Youth Park Parade and Guerneville’s 65th Annual Stumptown Parade — both take place Saturday morning. The Forestville parade and two-day Youth Park barbecue and music fest were supposed to happen a week ago but were postponed because of rain.

The Forestville parade steps off at 10 a.m. at the corner of Front and 1st streets and takes Mirabel Road to the Youth Park. There, you can take in a full two days of food, music, games and other attractions. All proceeds go to the maintenance of the park. For more details see http://www.forestvilleyouthpark.org/

In Guerneville, the Stumptown Daze Parade — theme, Back in the Saddle Again — starts downtown at 11 a.m. This enticement comes from the Russian River Chamber of Commerce website:

“Come on down to see the floats, the horses, and of course, the 6-gun shooters. Got a friend you wouldn’t mind seeing behind bars? Pay the Deputy $5 to have them thrown into the ‘Stumptown Jail.”’After the parade join the Russian River Fire Protection District at the annual BBQ in Lark Drugs’ parking lot.”

Choices, choices. The good news is, you can’t go wrong in either Forestville or Guerneville. And you can even catch some of both of the river towns’ doings.

About This Blog

Chris Smith has been writing for The Press Democrat for more than 30 years and has been a full-time columnist with the newspaper since 2002. After graduating from San Jose State University with a degree in reporting and editing, he worked as a reporter for the Riverside Press-Enterprise and the weekly Independent Coast Observer in Gualala/The Sea Ranch before becoming a correspondent for The Press Democrat in Fort Bragg/Mendocino. He is married to Diane Peterson, who covers food and music for the PD.